Wilkinson, 30, played 183 games for the province but the match against Saracens in January proved to be his last. He suffered ligament damage in his neck and has been forced to wear a neck brace to stabilise the damage.

Wilkinson said: "It has, of course, come as a big shock for me that I have to retire so suddenly. I'm devastated that I won't play again but the nature of my injury was very serious and I have to appreciate that I have my health."

Head coach Pat Lam added: "From the moment I arrived here, I was able to recognise Brett as a true 'team man'. He is not afraid of hard work and he represents what it is to be a Connacht man and wear the Connacht jersey.

"While I am extremely disappointed for him at this time, I am also very relieved that he is fit and healthy beyond rugby."